This industry is unregulated. Anyone can build a website and create a business that may not be qualified to handle your move transition in a professional and cost-efficient manner.
Here are the Do’s and Don’ts to help you choose the right company.
The Do’s
- Visit the company website to understand who the owners are, overall culture, services offered and their credentials. Are they Better Business Bureau Approved?
- Some movers and auctions companies may offer downsizing and moving services. These services can be an add-on service to increase their business and get access to your items. Hiring a company solely dedicated to senior moving and downsizing may be more time and cost efficient.
- When meeting the consultant ask yourself basic questions: Are they polite? Do they listen to your story, or do they do the talking? How are they dressed? Do they look like a consultant or a mover?
- Review estimate carefully. Does the estimate cover the entire job or a portion of it? Is each service broken down with costs and number of hours to complete the service? A detailed estimate with all costs included is a positive sign when choosing the right company.
- Know your rights under the Consumer Protection Act 2002. You may cancel an agreement any time during the period that ends ten (10) days after the day you receive a written copy of the agreement. You do not need to give the supplier a reason for cancelling during this 10-day period. For more information, you may contact the Ministry of Consumer and Business Services.
The Don’ts
- Do not pay for a consultation or plan of action. If the company is not willing to meet with you at their expense and listen to your story, this is a fairly good sign you will not be happy with their service.
- Do not accept a verbal estimate. You need a detailed estimate in writing.
- Do not go straight to the bottom line. Bottom lines can be deceiving. Make sure you understand services, costs, and number of hours to complete. Remember, you will pay in the end.
- Do not allow a consultant to begin the job on the initial consultation. This is the interviewing process, not the beginning of the job.
Now you are in the know! Happy transitioning.
Margo Salnek is the founder and CEO of Move Seniors Lovingly, since 2005. See moveseniorslovingly.com